Home / Shipping News / International Shipping News / Joint Development of an Innovative Method for Ship Hull Inspection and Maintenance Using Drone and Image Analysis System

Joint Development of an Innovative Method for Ship Hull Inspection and Maintenance Using Drone and Image Analysis System

Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha, Ltd., (hereinafter referred to as “K” LINE) is pleased to announce the launching of a development project using an innovative method for ship hull inspection and maintenance by a drone and image analysis system jointly with TECHNOS MIHARA CORPORATION (hereinafter referred to as TECHNOS MIHARA), a professional company of “non-destructive testing” in Hiroshima, Japan. “K” LINE has been maintaining the finest quality of our fleet under unique ship management policy named “KL-QUALITY,” designed as a high-level and systematic ship inspection program by a dedicated team consisting of professional Superintendents.

Underwater Drone

However, we have continued having difficulty for a long time in inspection of ship parts that are hard to access, such as the top side of cargo hold, ship hull under water, etc. As a result of multiple on-site trials with aerial and underwater drones with TECHNOS MIHARA, which has sophisticated technology for drone operation and image analyzation, we’ve found notable improvement in the accuracy of such inspections. In addition, we have also enjoyed an improvement in efficiency and safety of the inspections by automation using these drones.

“K” LINE and TECHNOS MIHARA are now proceeding to the next step and have reached a mutual agreement to develop a new system for ship hull inspection and maintenance through integration between drone and digital image analysis technology of TECHNOS MIHARA together with the long-time accumulated and cultivated expertise and know-how of “K” LINE’s ship management.

Trial inspection of Aerial Drone in a cargo hold

Our new department known as “AI/Digitalization Promotion Division” was set up in January 2019 and is aiming to introduce new technology, improve our high-value-added transportation services and obtain the best possible satisfaction and reliability from our esteemed customers. “K” LINE is dedicated to continue seeking the best and safest services through strong cooperation and alliances with various businesses partners across different fields.

Watch below a close up video captured by aerial drone:

Source: K Line

Recent Videos

Hellenic Shipping News Worldwide Online Daily Newspaper on Hellenic and International Shipping